Best Beaches for Families in Monmouth County

By Carrie Calzaretta

Published: June 19, 2012

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Monmouth County’s 27 miles of shoreline stretch from Sandy Hook in the north to the Manasquan inlet, on the border of Ocean County. The atmosphere varies greatly, from the iconic landmarks and music history of Asbury Park, to the hopping crowds and greasy pizza of Belmar, to the low-key, upscale beaches of Spring Lake. There are more than a dozen of NJ best beaches, which are kid-friendly, including these reader favorites.

New Jersey's Best Beaches in Monmouth County

Because it has both ocean beaches and calmer bay beaches, Sandy Hook is unique, and perfect for swimming with little ones. Families love Sandy Hook for its cleanliness, for shell collecting, and for its remote feel. There are terrific bike paths, so consider arriving on two wheels to save money on parking. Bird watching is also fantastic here.

Long Branch Beach and Seven Presidents Beach are both in Long Branch, but the latter is part of the Monmouth County Park System. It’s a bit more expensive for a badge, but worth it. Seven Presidents has its own parking lot, a super-cool new beachfront playground called Tony’s Place, and a skateplex that’s ideal for school-age kids and teens.